“The sea was never just water here; it was a compass, a god, and a gate.”
Built on a bluff above the Caribbean, Tulum wasn’t meant to be hidden. It was a coastal stronghold, one of the last great cities of the Maya. Canoes once arrived here loaded with obsidian, jade, and cacao. Priests studied the sky from its towers. Traders passed through its gates. And behind its thick walls, temples rose to honor wind, water, and time.
What makes Tulum unforgettable isn’t just its history; it’s the setting. Nowhere else can you wander through thousand-year-old ruins with the sea glittering beside you and the wind threading through the carved stone? It’s compact, vivid, and open to the horizon in every direction.
This self-guided audio tour helps you unlock the deeper meaning behind every temple, platform, and fresco. No groups. No rush. Just stories that play exactly where they belong, letting you explore at your pace, offline, and on your terms.
You’ll pass the House of the Cenote, built beside a sacred water source, and walk along walls that once protected the city from invaders and storms. The Temple of the Wind stands perched by the sea, aligned with the elements it was built to honor. The Palace of the Great Lord still feels powerful, while the Temple of the Descending God invites closer inspection with its upside-down figure carved above the doorway.
At the heart of it all is the Castle, towering over the turquoise water, a ceremonial center and beacon for incoming travelers. You’ll also discover the House of Columns and the Temple of the Frescoes, where faded artwork still speaks of gods, time, and cosmic order. Even the lesser-visited corners, such as the House of Chultun and the Temple of the Initial Series, offer surprising glimpses into the brilliance of Mayan design.
And one final tip: Bring authentic shoes, not flip-flops. The iguanas won’t judge you, but the limestone might.
Your Tulum Ruins Tour is now available in Spanish as well! Buy it today!
Hello Hola, and Hallo – Explore Tulum Ruins in English, Spanish and German!
All languages are available to you when you purchase the tour.
Want all of our tours? Upgrade to Action+:
- An annual $99.99/year subscription offers access to over 200+ tours.
- Unlimited use throughout the year.
- Includes free access to new tours as they are released.
Where To Start?
Starting Point Address: Letras rojas Tulum
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If multiple versions or entry points are available for your tour, be sure to download all the audio guides.
- Audio Setup: Connect your phone to the car stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux, and bring headphones on walking tours. CarPlay and Android Auto are currently not supported; we’re working toward a solution with Apple
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Audio Story Highlights
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Civilization
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History
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Spanish Conquest
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The Ticket booth
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Architecture
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Hieroglyphics
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The Watchtower
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North Gate
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Casa Cenote Entrance
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The House of the Cenote
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Tulum Walls
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Temple of the Wind
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Religion
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Palace of the Great Lord
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Temple of the Descending God
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The Castle
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Dancing Platform
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The House of Columns
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Calendar
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Temple of the Frescoes
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House of Chultun
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Temple of the Initial Series
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Port and Nesting Turtles
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Beach
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Mayan Ballgame
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Temple
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Today
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
The town of Tulum used to be known as Zamá, a Mayan name that means Place of Dawning Sun, because it faces the sunrise.
Most tourists will agree that November through April are the ideal conditions for sightseeing. The truth is, Tulum is amazing no matter when you go. All that preserved history is available for you to discover any day of the year using our self-guided tour.
This tour of Tulum takes about one to two hours. But don’t let the small size of the site fool you – – there’s a TON of historical ground to cover. Read our comprehensive guide for more information on the length of the tulum tour.
Tulum is the site of some fantastic and well-preserved Mayan ruins.The ancient walled city of Tulum is the best-preserved of all the Mayan coastal settlements.Tulum’s unique cultural history is waiting to be discovered. How come everyone knows about Tulum is available in our blog post of: Why is Tulum famous?
The Mayan ruins in Tulum, Mexico, are a must-see for anybody visiting the breathtaking Riviera Maya. The ancient city, built as a seaside fortification with steep cliffs and limestone walls, is one of Mexico’s best-preserved coastal Maya ruins.
The Tulum Ruins are open every day of the week from 8 AM – 5 PM.
The ruins are located on the Mayan Riviera in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, just 3 kilometres (1.8 miles) from Tulum Town. It may take twice as long if you are coming from Tulum Beach’s hotel zone.
Climbing is prohibited at the ruins of Tulum. Due to the age and instability of the remains, the central structures such as Pyramid El Castillo and Temple of the Frescoes have been cordoned off. Visitors must remain on the authorised walking pathways.
No doubt Chichen Itza is crazy popular but many people prefer tulum as it is less crowded & serene. For a detailed comparison (and more confusion), you can read our blog post on: Which is better to visit: Chichen Itza or Tulum?
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Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically via GPS, hands‑free. Assistance available all day via call, chat, or email.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Valid for multiple visits up to 1 year after purchase.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or wifi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Enjoy a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated videos, text guides, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations for any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.